Historic Muskegon school begins transformation into 46 affordable new homes

What’s happening: A long-vacant piece of Muskegon history is about to find new purpose. Samaritas, one of Michigan’s leading health and human services nonprofit organizations, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Froebel Place, a  $16.1 million historic rehabilitation transforming the former Froebel School into 46 affordable homes.

What’s the backstory: The school was built in 1930, and its restoration is scheduled for completion by spring 2028. This project underscores Samaritas’ commitment to expanding equitable housing access across West Michigan and the entire state.

What they’re saying: “At Samaritas, we believe that a safe, affordable home is the foundation for a thriving life,” says Dave Morin, Samaritas CEO. “Breathing new life into the historic Froebel School is an investment in the people of Muskegon, as we work alongside local leaders and community partners to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.”

What’s inside: Froebel Place will feature a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for renters earning between 30 and 80 percent of the area median income. Seven units will receive project-based rental assistance vouchers through the Muskegon Housing Commission to further support vulnerable residents.

How did it come together: The Froebel Place project was made possible by a $1.29 million Low-Income Housing Tax Credit award, Historic Tax Credits, and $850,000 in local funding secured by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Samaritas and the Samaritas Foundation contributed $1.68 million. Crucially, the City of Muskegon, through the Muskegon County Land Bank, used a $1.3 million blight elimination grant from the State Land Bank Authority to stabilize the property ahead of the transfer.

Why it was special: Adding a personal touch to the celebration, 94-year-old Beverly Rogers traveled from North Carolina to witness the rebirth of her childhood school, helping bridge the building’s history with its new future. She and many others who hold fond memories of the former school are seeing the building where they once learned and played transformed into a space that will continue to nurture and shelter Muskegon families. 

Who stepped up: Local public officials and representatives from project partners came together for the groundbreaking. Among them was Michigan Rep. Will Snyder, who fought for a community-based initiative to carry on the Froebel School’s legacy. Other partners include: 

• City of Muskegon
• Community Foundation for Muskegon County 
• Garrett Family Community Partners
• Lake Michigan Credit Union
• Little River Holdings
• Mercantile Community Partners
• Mercantile Community Bank
• Michigan State Housing Development Authority
• Muskegon Housing Commission 
• Pinnacle Construction

What’s the takeaway: “This groundbreaking represents years of dedication and the power of incredible community partnerships,” says Joel Lautenbach, executive director of affordable living development for Samaritas. “By working collaboratively with local champions, we are transforming a vacant space into beautiful homes that will serve Muskegon families for generations.”